California, USA
Suisun Valley AVA
From Kenny, founder of Hobo Wines/Folk Machine - "In California, there are primarily three heritage grapes, Zinfandel, Valdiguié, and Charbono. Of those, Zin is pretty widely planted, but Valdiguié and Charbono are sparse and ‘endangered’ if we don’t drink them. We’ve had eyes and ears open for a Charbono that we could foster. Around the Spring of 2013, we learned that Brian Babcock in Suisun Valley had a small two-acre block of Charbono that was just a few years old after being grafted over from Merlot. Turns out to be a great fit for the region. It is slow ripening even with the warm weather and holds acid. What more could we ask for? Typical for the grape, this wine is very dark in color and heavy in the nose, but it doesn’t live up to this expectation. It actually drinks very pretty, almost light. The tannin level is moderate given the way it looks and smells."
Expect fresh raspberry, slightly overripe strawberry, sweet violet, crushed stone minerality and a hiccup of spiciness. A beguiling red that feels like sleight of hand, where your expectations are defied by your senses.
Perfect to pair with any red meats fresh off the grill.